Blackpool's Big Ryan offers supper treat for NHS staff

Big Ryan Smith, 35, of South Shore, arranged for staff at Blackpool's Victoria Hospital's intensive care unit to receive five large pizzas and chips from Ricardos Pizzas on Tuesday night.

The following night Ryan ensured they received 15 fish and chips from the Harrowside chippy, as well as chocolates.

Hospital staff and those at the takeaway shops ensured strict Covid rules were followed.

Ryan approached the food outlets and they donated they donated the items for free to support his cause, and he brought the items to the A&E reception himself.

Ryan said: "In my eyes the NHS staff are all heroes, they are saving lives and putting their own health on the line.

"This is my way of saying thanks, they all work so hard."

Earlier this week he handed over £200 worth of sweets and chocolates for staff and patients at The Harbour mental health unit, off Preston New Road.

Just before Christmas Ryan handed out presents to some of the resort’s under-privileged families.

He, raised more than £600 via a Justgiving page after sleeping rough overnight and was also boosted by £200 worth of donations, helped by pals.

Ryan, known as Big Ry to his friends, also staged a sponsored walk for the RNLI last year, helped set up a soup kitchen and raised funds for a string of other good causes.

Last year Ryan also overcame a face cancer scare and he is classed as exempt from wearing a Covid mask.

On Saturday he will join another pal, Sam Webster, in a running circuits and uphill sprint challenge on Harrowside hill to raise awareness of mental health issues.

It is hoped that Blackpool boxer Brian Rose will join them.